An Accolade to Marovitz Golf Course

THE Chicago golf story of 2010 played out in February. "In Small Wonders," an article by the golf course architect editor and critic for Golf Digest/ Golf World, Ron Whitten selected The 25 Best Nine-Hole Courses in America. Our nearest course, Sydney R Marovitz, was so honored.  This Chicago Park District landmark is a long 9-hole venue along Lake Michigan east of Lake Shore Drive, just north of Diversey Harbor.  Take the Recreation Drive exit (3700 North) and then a quick right turn toward the lake.  

Formally known as Waveland Golf Course, the course is always crowded, because of its location and long holes. Grain traders are teeing off by 3:30 p.m., being able to play 9 holes after work, as well as others, who work downtown.  Those living in the high rises along the lake on the North Side consider Marovitz their course. The course, playing 3240 yards, challenges those of all skill levels, especially city dwellers who are long hitters.

Could it be that Marovitz Golf Course made the 25 Best List after Billy Casper Management began improvements in 2009?  Anyone who has ever golfed there knows play is super slow.  Instead of a quick 2 hours of exercise, it might take 3 ½ to 4 hours.  Sitting and waiting 8-24 minutes between holes was normal, as well as, teeing off late.  The new management has improved all wait times, so a player's momentum is not lost.  The game of golf feels like a game, not a labor of love.  Congratulations to the Chicago Park District and Billy Casper Management, under the direction of Travis Kane.  Shouldn't the Chicago City Council or the Chicago Park District hang a plaque to memorialize such an honor?  To read the entire article, see Golf World, Feb. 8, 2010, pages 30-37.